LEICA CAMERA X Michael Nadēr Inquiry

50 years ago — my Egyptian grandfather left being an artist in Paris, to build a better life for his family. Exactly 50 years later, I’m returning to Paris to photograph a series of artists, muralists, and their work.

For the last several years as a photographer, much of my personal work has been photographing immigrant families, their businesses, and the stories of their children. Many of their children are flourishing artists, film directors, actors, and hip-hop artists — creating something for their future while holding fast with honor who they are and where they come from.

On Wednesday, June 28, 2022 — I received an inquiry about a project in Paris. In 24 hours, the flights were booked, and I didn’t realize the significance of what this would mean for me personally. For the first time in my career, I feel like I’m getting to tell my story in the same way I’ve told others.